Dune

Author: David Lynch

The filmed version of Frank Herbert's classic novel Dune is one that divides critics and viewers alike. Some say it's unwatchable, and others drool over the visuals, the complex story, and the dream-like Lynchian touches he imparts. The key to this film is simple: don't expect everything to be put out in front of you. In every scene, there is a man behind a curtain. The story of a powerful intergalactic empire which runs on the mysterious spice melange is the perfect tool for Lynch to work his magic, with heavy symbolism, deep ruminations, and character thoughts becoming manifest via strange conversations and stilted, exchanged looks. The costuming is unparalleled with influences ranging from 17th Century Spanish royalty to 19th century Welsh coalmining garb. The story is twisty, and there are off-screen shennanigans, but it all adds up to something byzantine and marvelous. The special effects are definitely of the time, but the computer-generated shields in the big knife fight make it all worth while. Why it's on the list A wonderful example of how you can fiddle with source material and produce something remarkable... plus it's got Sting in a loincloth.